RED DEER – by Suzanne van Kooten

A Mosaic Crochet Blanket Pattern
Designed by Suzanne van Kooten

Tested by: Emmily Hines, Darlene Terhune, Christeen Jarnagin

Introduction

Crochet is both a mindful practice and a form of visual storytelling. Overlay mosaic crochet allows structure, rhythm, and imagery to come together in a way that is both meditative and artistically powerful.
This design features a majestic red deer standing in a forest setting—symbolizing nature, strength, and quiet presence. The image gradually reveals itself as you progress, turning stitches into a striking piece of textile art.

About the Design

This pattern is worked in overlay mosaic crochet using two contrasting colors referred to as Light Color and Dark Color, allowing you to personalize your palette while maintaining clear visual definition.

the pattern includes written instructions row by row and a the chart.

• Stitch Count: 159 stitches wide × 239 rows tall (excluding starting chain and border stitches)
• Finished Size: approx. 145 cm × 200 cm (57 x 78 inch) when using a 6 mm hook and matching gauge
• Skill Level: Advanced or Confident Intermediate
• Pattern Type: Full blanket, suitable for a double or small bed top

This is an immersive project designed for crocheters who enjoy watching a detailed image emerge row by row.

Why Overlay Mosaic Crochet

Overlay mosaic crochet is perfect for this type of graphic design because it creates crisp patterns using simple stitches—without requiring color changes within a row or carrying yarn across the back. Each row is worked in a single color, using back loop single crochets and front loop double crochet overlays to build the image.

Materials

• Recommended Hook Size: 5.0 – 6.0 mm
• Recommended Yarn Weight: DK / Light Worsted
• Color A: Light Color (background or main field)
• Color B: Dark Color (image overlay)
• Additional Tools: tapestry needle, scissors, optional stitch markers
Exact yarn usage will depend on the chosen yarn brand and your personal tension. But as estimation you can take this as a guidance:

Total Project ≈ 2,400–2,500 meters (≈ 2,600–2,750 yd)

• Color A (light color) (~37%) → ≈ 890–925 m (≈ 970–1,010 yd)
• Color B (dark color) (~63%) → ≈ 1,510–1,575 m (≈ 1,650–1,720 yd)

Gauge

To achieve the listed finished size, use the following gauge:
12 stitches × 14 rows = 10 cm with a 6mm hook.
(measured in single crochet back loop only, in mosaic crochet style)
Note: Your finished size may vary slightly depending on yarn, hook size, and personal tension.

Abbreviations (US Terms)

ch chain
sc (blo) single crochet in the back loop only
dc (flo) double crochet in the front loop two rows below
st stitch

How to Start

Begin with a foundation chain of 158 chains using the Light Color.
(155 pattern stitches + 2 border stitches + 1 turning chain)
Work one row of single crochet before starting Row 1 of the mosaic pattern.

Finished Size

When worked to gauge, your blanket will measure approximately: 145 cm × 200 cm (57 x 78 inch)
Final size may vary based on yarn choice, tension, and blocking.

Finishing

Weave in ends as you go, or use an envelope border to encase them for a clean and polished finish. Blocking is recommended to smooth the stitches and enhance the overall stitch definition.

Designer’s Note

Thank you for choosing this pattern. This design combines the serenity of nature with the beauty of mosaic crochet. I hope each row brings you a sense of focus, creativity, and anticipation as the deer slowly appears through your stitches.
— Designed by Suzanne van Kooten

Copyright Notice

This pattern, including all written instructions, charts, and layout, is the original work of Suzanne van Kooten and is fully protected by copyright. No part of this pattern may be copied, reproduced, shared, translated, or distributed in any form without written permission from the designer.
Finished blankets made using this pattern may be sold in limited quantities, provided full credit is given as:
Pattern design by Suzanne van Kooten